What the 49ers said after beating the Bears in heart-thumping NFC showdown

"The 49ers outlasted the Chicago Bears on Sunday night to stay in the hunt for the NFC's No. 1 playoff seed, winning a barnburner 42-38. The defense struggled throughout but came through when it mattered, holding the Bears to a field goal in the fourth quarter and then keeping them out of the end zone as time expired. Brock Purdy overcame an interception returned for a touchdown on the game's first play to account for five 49ers touchdowns three passing and two rushing."

"Christian McCaffrey also had a big game, rushing for 140 yards on 23 carries, including a season-long 41-yarder to kickstart a touchdown drive. He rushed for one score, too. Jauan Jennings had only two catches, but he made his second one count, as he scored the winning touchdown on a winding catch-and-run with 2:15 left in the game."

"Ricky Pearsall returned from aggravating a knee injury to lead the 49ers with 85 yards on five catches. Jake Tonges, starting at tight end in place of the injured George Kittle, had a team-high seven receptions for 60 yards and a touchdown. Kyle Juszczyk also had a touchdown catch. The Niners will play the Seahawks for the NFC West crown next Saturday at Levi's Stadium (5 p.m., ABC/ESPN)."

The 49ers defeated the Chicago Bears 42-38 to remain in contention for the NFC's top playoff seed. The defense struggled at times but held the Bears to a fourth-quarter field goal and prevented a game-winning touchdown as time expired. Brock Purdy overcame an interception returned for a touchdown on the first play and accounted for five 49ers touchdowns, finishing 24-of-33 for 303 yards with 28 rushing yards. Christian McCaffrey rushed for 140 yards on 23 carries, including a 41-yard run and one rushing score. Jauan Jennings caught the game-winning touchdown with 2:15 remaining. Ricky Pearsall returned to record 85 yards, Jake Tonges had seven catches for 60 yards and a touchdown, and Kyle Juszczyk also scored. The 49ers will face the Seahawks next Saturday for the NFC West title.

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